Malaysia's highest Islamic authority has banned Muslims from using Botox injections for cosmetic purposes, reports said today.

The National Fatwa Council yesterday ruled the jabs were unsuitable because they contain prohibited substances, including some made from pigs, the New Straits Times reported.

The council has no legal powers but Muslims who ignore their decrees are said to be committing a sin.

It made its decision "after studying reports from abroad, local specialists and fatwas made in Middle Eastern countries", council chairman Shukor Husin told the newspaper.

He said Botox injection were still allowed for medical treatment but only in extreme cases and if administered by specialists.

Many fake products

"This decision refers to situations where there are no alternatives for medical treatment," Shukor said.

"Since its introduction, there have also been many fake products in the market and that is another reason why it is 'haram'," he added, using the term for something forbidden under Islamic precepts.

Botulinum Toxin Type A, commercially known as Botox, is a powerful neurotoxin introduced nearly two decades ago.

It is widely used to cure facial problems but is best known for its cosmetic qualities in paralysing facial muscles and thus giving foreheads a relaxed, wrinkle-free appearance.

Botox injections have become popular among affluent people in Malaysia, a mainly-Muslim country, where many prefer to use it as an alternative to cosmetic surgery which is also generally prohibited under Islam.